Levin Hails President Obama's Signing Public Lands Bill Into Law
Statement
Levin Hails President Obama's Signing Public Lands Bill Into Law
"I am thrilled to see President Obama today sign into law the omnibus public lands bill, a measure that will benefit Michigan and the nation by enhancing preservation of natural and historic resources and improving recreational opportunities for current and future generations.
"This legislation will provide a significant boost to Michigan through four provisions I authored. First, the bill removes several onerous federal requirements and increases authorized funding levels for the Upper Peninsula's Keweenaw National Historical Park, allowing the park to better carry out its mission to bring to life the rich history of Michigan's "copper country." Next, the bill authorizes the federal government to purchase land from willing sellers for the North Country National Scenic Trail, the nation's longest hiking trail, 1,000 miles of which traverse through Michigan. I have been seeking that change for ten years and am particularly pleased that public-minded citizens will now have the right to sell easements or even portions of their land to the federal government should they choose to do so and if it is in the national interest.
"After years of careful planning and public input, the bill will also protect 12,000 pristine acres of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore along the south shore of majestic Lake Superior while preserving access and recreational opportunities for the public. Finally, the bill contains legislation I sponsored with Representative John Dingell that designates key River Raisin battle sites primarily in Monroe County, Michigan, a strategic front in the War of 1812, as a unit of the National Park System in time for the upcoming 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.
"Each of these provisions will pay dividends for years to come by protecting natural beauty and history in Michigan while also encouraging tourism and recreation and celebrating everything our state has to offer."
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